Works Begins on Shrewsbury University Halls

Demolition work has begun on the former tannery in Barker Street, as work gets underway on building new student halls for the University Centre Shrewsbury.

The decision to build three new buildings has largely been supported, as the existing buildings have been described as an "abomination" on the landscape of the town.

Once complete the new student halls will be able to accommodation around 200 students attending the university.

Commenting on the development, Paul Kirkbright, University Centre Shrewsbury deputy provost, said: "This first-class student accommodation being constructed by our partners at Shropshire Council is within sight of our main teaching centre.

"This is another significant step in the development of University Centre Shewsbury, one that we're confident will bring long lasting benefit to the people of Shrewsbury and Shropshire."

It's hoped the new accommodation will help support the redevelopment of the west end of Shrewsbury town centre, and will provide a significant improvement to the area.

Under the plans, three separate blocks of student accommodation will be constructed. However, council officials have indicated it may include some sort of retail element, which could be included as part of review of the final designs.

Demolition of the existing site was agreed back in 2015, with councillor Peter Nutting suggesting "everyone knows this building is an abomination that needs ripping down".

He went on to add: "This site is very important for the town and it is important that whatever is built there now is of the highest quality."

The building had been scheduled for completion in time for the 2016-17 academic year, however construction was put on hold whilst an assessment for student demand was carried out.

The project was finally given the go-ahead in December after the university was included in the council's economic growth strategy.